On how the state must transform its energy system away from fossil fuels to meet the existential challenge of climate change

California's natural wonders are extraordinary as they span from the bristlecone pines near Bishop to the redwoods at Muir Woods, from the Trinity Alps to the Mojave Desert, and from the waters of Humboldt Bay to San Diego Bay . . .

Since 2013, $1.63 billion was requested and given to schools for energy efficiency projects through the Proposition 39 K-12 Program, which is administrated by the Energy Commission. That voter-approved initiative adjusts the corporate income tax code and allocates revenues to school districts. In turn, schools use the money to make energy efficiency improvements . . .

A new advisory group has been formed to help the California Energy Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) ensure that low-income households and hard to reach customers reap the benefits of the 21st century grid . . .

Program supports goal of getting 5 million zero-emission vehicles on road

The California Energy Commission's Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program (ARFVTP) celebrated its 10th anniversary this year with a March 7 event at the Capitol. The program is one of the first created by the California State Legislature to help achieve the state's climate change policies.

The ARFVTP spurs innovations in a broad portfolio of alternative fuels and transportation that help California meet its ambitious air quality, petroleum reduction, and climate change goals . . .

The Energy Commission's Renewable Energy for Agriculture Program conducted a workshop in Bakersfield to introduce and receive additional public comments on preliminary program design concepts. The program seeks to spur onsite renewable energy in agricultural operations.

The Energy Commission approved five loans for energy efficiency projects in the Kern, Merced, Tulare, San Mateo and San Bernardino counties totaling more than $10 million. Four of the loans will fund photovoltaic systems and one will fund updated LED lighting.

The Energy Commission participated in a Pacific Ocean Energy Trust conference on offshore wind as a potential energy resource in California. California is one of 13 states working with the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management on offshore wind-related activities.

Greenhouse gas emissions continue to drop in California even as the state grows its economy and population. Further declines in greenhouse gas emissions are expected to come from the state's transportation sector, according to an Energy Commission tracking progress report.

The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. The agency was established by the California Legislature through the Warren-Alquist Act in 1974. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying thermal power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, and preparing for energy emergencies.